Natural Environment Section of DoE in their letter dated 15th October state the following: This planting is of limited ecological value with incidental potential for nesting birds. Reduction in height of this planting would only impact on nesting birds using these plants at the time of pruning. The long term implications of a reduction in height would be negligible providing work is done inline with the advice and subject to a condition for protecting birds during the nesting season. Independent Surveyor (Mr B Livesey of NSJ Chartered Surveyors) in his email 20th November 2013 reports the following: It should be noted that the report was undertaken by the Surveyor prior to lopping carried out on 20th November 2013 by the tree owner’s tree surgeon. At the site visits by the officer on 20th and 21st November, it was considered that the Leylandii had been reduced by approximately 1.5- 2m in height. 1) The entire length of the south west Holly hedges should be reduced down to 2m in height from ground level. Their current heights range from 3.38m to 5.44m high. 2) The entire Leylandii hedge to the north west should be reduced down from approximately 6m to 2.15m high from ground level. Three tall deciduous trees are disadvantageous for the complainant, however they do not constitute a High Hedge under the legislation as they are not evergreen or semi evergreen. States of Jersey Aboricultural Officer in his email dated 21st November 2013 identified the following: The Holly hedge (Ilex Aquifolium) is of varying ages between 20-35 yrs old. Public amenity value – relates only to the two house owners as a green screen. Health and Vigour - it is in good health. Potential for re growth - the reduction of its height down to 2m would significantly reduce the life span of the hedge as it would soon become exposed to disease. Recommendation: The Holly to be reduced to 3m 20 cm allowing annual regrowth and still provide some screening between properties. The hedge shall be pruned when it has regrown 60 cm or every three years depending on the vigour of the hedge. The Leylandii (Cupressocyparis Leylandii) Public amenity value - has a low amenity value as it provides a green screen between property owners Health and vigour – Just been cut on two sides, so unable to tell extent of vigour but growth around 30cm on average but it is in good condition. Potential for re growth - The reduction of the hedge to 2.15m in order to give maximum light would significantly reduce the life span of the hedge as it would soon become exposed to disease. Recommendation - The hedge is recommended to be reduced to 4m 20cm in height to allow for annual re growth and still provide some screening between properties. The hedge shall be pruned every year or when it gets to 5m depending on the vigour. All consultations are attached with the background papers |